The most common cases of high blood pressure involve pregnant women. This could be as a result of previous pressure problems or may be caused by what is referred to as gestational hypertension.
There is little scientific explanation to account for its occurrence in pregnancy for persons who did not have it before. However, the increased load in the uterus particularly puts pressure in the arteries around the lower abdominal region and in the legs.
This medical condition comes with various circulation problems and is known to interfere with blood flow to the retina, kidneys, brain, liver and placenta. In cases of chronic hypertension, the fetus may be denied of essential nutrients or may even suffocate as oxygen does not get through to it in sufficient quantities.
The mother can also develop pre-eclempsia, a very risky condition that may kill both mother and child. It also makes the gestation period almost unbearable as it causes dizziness and headaches, abdominal discomfort, blurry vision or even total sight loss.
Gestational hypertension on the other hand increases the mother's chances of having pressure problems in future even though it may not be very risky during this time.
Pregnant persons with any of these conditions do well to make a few lifestyle changes in order to ensure they do not become any worse. In case your body weight is above the BMI requirement, now is the time to cut it down. Tough as it may be also, you need to engage in physical activities regularly.
Reduce the intake of substances like alcohol and caffeine and reduce the amount of salt used in food. Take foods known to help with hypertension such as bananas and avocados.
Persons who already had chronic pressure should not stop taking drugs to keep it in check during this period. However, they may need to change their prescription so as to ensure that the baby is in no way harmed.
Pre-eclempsia may necessitate early delivery if the mother and/or baby are at risk. This cannot be done too early though since it may have tragic consequences for the young one. In other cases, it may be though wise to let the mother carry the pregnancy full term but under very strict supervision.
In all cases of blood pressure in pregnancy, the only way to keep mother and child safe is through constant monitoring of their condition. This could involve regular ultrasound tests and other examinations.
Many are the times the condition simply disappears after delivery, unless it is chronic.
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For more information about high blood pressure visit Lower My Blood Pressure.com.au.
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